Peoria Sports Complex Cheers for Dodgers’ Spring Training Debut
PEORIA, Ariz. – Excitement filled the blue section of the Peoria Sports Complex as the Dodgers kicked off Sunday’s spring training game against the Padres, with their first three batters warmly welcomed.
The crowd first cheered for infielder Miguel Rojas, one of the club’s World Series champions returning to the team. Next up was catcher Will Smith, who was met with similar enthusiasm. However, it was the team’s latest star signing that really got the fans buzzing for the first time.
Kyle Tucker, newly acquired by the Dodgers, stepped up to the plate amidst cheers.
“It felt really welcoming,” Tucker, a four-time All-Star who recently inked a $240 million deal, remarked following his debut in a 5-1 win over the Padres. “Everyone, from the front office to the coaching staff and players, made it effortless for me to settle in.”
Here are four insights from the game, especially focusing on Tucker’s debut.
King Tuck Takes the Field: Although Tucker only had two at-bats, he expressed satisfaction with both. In his first, he smashed a grounder at 168.6 mph, but it promptly turned into an out. During the third inning, he contributed to a four-run rally, helping out with four walks, one of which involved a pitch clock violation.
“I took a good look at the ball and hit it pretty hard, but it just hit the ground,” Tucker joked about his two at-bats, adding that he’s aiming to improve from last year’s spring performance, which was a rough 3-for-30 in the Cactus League.
Please Call Slowly: Currently, Alex Cole is the only outfielder for the Dodgers yet to play in a game this spring. He was acquired at last year’s trade deadline but has been hindered by a minor foot issue that’s delayed his participation. “Woke up one day with sore legs, which was odd,” Cole said. “I hadn’t done anything to cause it, so I’m not really worried.”
What Caught My Eye: Kim Hye-sung and Alex Freeland are likely candidates to step in for Tommy Edman as he recuperates from ankle surgery. Additionally, several non-roster invitees, including six-year MLB veteran Nick Senzel, are also impressing in camp. Senzel stood out on Sunday with a noticeable double and an impressive defensive play at third base after signing a minor league deal this offseason.
Next Steps: The Dodgers will play their Cactus League home opener against the Mariners on Monday at Camelback Ranch, with Landon Knack slated to take the mound.
